Courtyard House: Initial Donation of 50 Million

February 14, 1941, evening, Waldorf Hotel, New York.

The hotel's banquet hall was decorated like a futuristic palace. Beneath a massive dome hung silver metal tassels and abstract geometric light fixtures, while the walls projected promotional images of "Tomorrow's World Expo": rockets, flying cars, robot servants, floating cities… The air was thick with the scents of fine cigars, perfume, roast beef, and an optimistic atmosphere called "progress." Gentlemen wore tuxedos, while ladies vied for attention, clad in sequined evening gowns, extravagant headdresses, and long gloves, as if they had just stepped out of a science fiction movie.

This was a charity gala before the opening of the expo, ostensibly to raise funds for the "Wartime Children's Relief Fund," but in reality, it was a showcase for tech elites, industrial giants, military representatives, and social celebrities from New York and across the United States to demonstrate their power and expand their networks. Elegant attire, clinking glasses, conversations, laughter, and the gentle strains of a small jazz band playing on stage mingled together.

Wang Huanbo, dressed in a brand-new Midnight Blue Tasto suit—white shirt, black bow tie—stood tall and straight beside a relatively quiet pillar on one side of the banquet hall, holding a glass of champagne that had barely been touched. His gaze calmly swept across the room, like that of a composed observer rather than a participant eager to blend in.

Attorney Chen stood a step behind him and whispered to him, pointing out the important figures present: "That's the president of General Electric... over there is the purchasing officer from the Army... oh, the editor-in-chief of Scientific American is here too... look, over there surrounded is Mr. Howard Stark."

Wang Huanbo's gaze then shifted to that direction.

At the center of the crowd, a man in his early thirties, with a neatly trimmed mustache, slicked-back hair, and a flamboyant white tuxedo (particularly conspicuous in this black and blue-dominated setting), was speaking animatedly, gesturing with his hands. Several elegantly dressed ladies around him covered their mouths and chuckled, while the men wore expressions of admiration, deep thought, or disapproval. He was like a radiant star, dazzling, confident, and possessing a captivating and aggressive allure unique to a cynical genius.

Howard Stark. Even from a distance, Wang Huanbo could feel the overflowing talent, ambition, and...excessive hormones emanating from him. Compared to the more composed and responsible founder of S.H.I.E.L.D. in later footage, Howard at this moment resembled a spoiled genius boy, freely displaying his intelligence and charisma.

"The man next to him in military uniform with a serious expression is Colonel Chester Phillips, who I heard is in charge of some special projects for the War Department. The blonde lady is Agent Peggy Carter from Britain, who is highly regarded by Phillips," Attorney Chen continued, clearly having done his homework.

Wang Huanbo nodded slightly. The core figures of SSR were also present, indicating that the banquet was indeed of a high standard. His gaze lingered on Peggy Carter for a moment longer—this future founder of S.H.I.E.L.D. still appeared somewhat green at the moment, but the determination and intelligence between her brows were already evident.

His primary target was still Howard. But directly approaching him wasn't the best approach. He needed a more natural opportunity to showcase his value.

The banquet then moved to the charity auction. The host took to the stage and, after a passionate speech, the auctioneer began to display the donated items: autographed photos of celebrities, limited-edition car models, and the right to use a vacation villa for a week... The bidding was lukewarm, mostly symbolic.

Until the last item was brought up for auction.

It was a glass case placed on a black velvet cushion. Inside the case was the "mysterious metal disc" that Attorney Chen had mentioned. Under the light, it appeared a dull, neither-gold-nor-iron, dark silver color, about the size of an adult's palm, about one centimeter thick, and irregularly shaped. Its surface was covered with extremely fine, complex, and dizzying etched patterns, which seemed to follow some strange mathematical rules, or perhaps some unknown script or circuit diagram. In the center of the disc was a shallow, smooth groove.

The auctioneer introduced the item with a slightly exaggerated tone: "Ladies and gentlemen, next up is the last and most mysterious item of the evening! An unknown metal disc from an ancient site in Asia Minor, its age and material are unanalyzable! Some scholars have speculated that it is related to the legendary 'Atlantean energy' or 'Hermesian magic'! Starting bid: five thousand US dollars!"

A slight commotion and whispers arose from the audience. Many looked interested but hesitant. This thing sounded mysterious, but its authenticity was hard to verify; five thousand dollars was no small sum in 1941.

"Five thousand!" Someone held up a sign; it was an elderly man wearing glasses who looked like a scholar.

"Five thousand five!"

"Six thousand!"

Bidding rose slowly, mainly from a few collectors and a museum representative.

"Ten thousand!" A clear and confident voice rang out, overshadowing the other bids. It was Howard Stark. He held up his paddle, a determined smile on his face, his eyes fixed intently on the metal tray on the platform.

The auctioneer's eyes lit up: "Mr. Stark has bid ten thousand dollars! Any higher bids? Ten thousand dollars for the first time..."

"Twelve thousand." A calm, gentle, yet clear voice rang out from the relatively quiet other side of the banquet hall.

All eyes turned to Wang Huanbo, who stood by the pillar holding a bidding paddle. Many people looked surprised and curious about this unfamiliar, handsome Eastern face.

Howard glanced over, raising an eyebrow, clearly surprised that someone would bid against him, especially a complete stranger. A playful smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he raised his paddle again: "Fifteen thousand!"

"Twenty thousand." Wang Huanbo's tone remained calm, as if he were talking about the weather today.

The murmurs in the room grew louder. Twenty thousand dollars for a nonsensical metal plate? Many people began to re-evaluate Wang Huanbo.

Howard's smile widened, a smile born of the excitement of facing a challenge. He loved having rivals, especially wealthy ones who dared to challenge him. "Twenty-five thousand!"

"Thirty thousand." Wang Huanbo said almost without hesitation.

Even Colonel Phillips and Agent Carter looked over, their gazes scrutinizing.

Howard stared at Wang Huanbo for a few seconds, then suddenly laughed, put down his paddle, and gestured to the auctioneer, "Alright, this... gentleman wins. I have respect for those who truly know their stuff." Though he said this, his eyes clearly said, "I'd like to see who you are."

The auctioneer brought down the gavel: "Thirty thousand US dollars! Sold! Congratulations, sir!"

Accompanied by Attorney Chen, Wang Huanbo stepped forward to complete the formalities and made the payment (in the name of the Wang Family Trust). The staff carefully handed him the glass case containing the metal tray.

Just as he took the item and was about to turn and leave, Howard Stark, holding a wine glass, walked through the crowd and approached him.

"Good evening, sir. Howard Stark." Stark extended his right hand, a bright smile on his face, but his eyes were sharp as an eagle as he sized up Wang Huanbo. "Excuse my poor eyesight, but it seems New York has never had the honor of knowing such a... lavish connoisseur?"

"Good evening, Mr. Stark. Wang Huanbo is from Southeast Asia." Wang Huanbo shook hands with him, his grip moderate, neither humble nor arrogant. "I dare not presume to be generous, but I have some personal interest in the unknown, especially historical relics that may be related to energy conversion." He deliberately emphasized the words "energy conversion."

Howard's eyes lit up slightly: "Energy conversion? An interesting angle. Most people would only think of witchcraft or aliens. Mr. Wang... are you a scientist? A collector? Or both?"

"I've studied some basic engineering and chemistry, so I can barely call myself a science enthusiast. My family is involved in mining and trading, which gives me the leisure to pursue my personal curiosity," Wang Huanbo answered flawlessly, while tilting the glass case in his hand slightly towards Howard. "Mr. Stark seems to be quite interested in it as well? Perhaps we can exchange ideas? I've also heard a little about your research on 'anti-gravity propulsion' and 'new energy pathways,' and I admire them greatly."

Howard's interest grew even stronger upon hearing this. A wealthy young man from the East with a scientific background, some understanding of his research, and who had even photographed the mysterious item that piqued his interest? This combination was exactly what he wanted.

"Ha! Looks like tonight's trip was worthwhile!" Howard laughed, naturally gesturing for him to step aside. "It's too noisy here, shall we chat on the balcony? I happen to have some ideas about the patterns on this thing; perhaps Mr. Wang could offer some... Eastern wisdom perspectives?"

"It would be my great honor."

The two walked side by side toward the glass door leading to the balcony. Colonel Phillips watched from a distance, frowned, and whispered to Carter beside him, "Investigate that Chinese man's background. Howard is sometimes too easily fascinated by 'interesting' things."

The balcony was spacious, and a cool breeze invigorated me. In the distance, the lights of Manhattan shone brightly. A waiter brought two fresh glasses of champagne.

Howard pointed almost impatiently at the metal disc inside the glass case: "Look at these patterns, Mr. Wang. I've glanced at them briefly, and they don't seem to be decorative. Look at the spirals here and the angles here; if we introduce a hypothetical current or energy flow..." He gestured rapidly, speaking quickly, "they could form a very efficient field focusing or resonant circuit! And this central groove, its size and shape, looks like it's for holding some kind of high-density crystal or radioactive isotope! If my guess is correct, this thing might be a prototype of an ancient energy amplifier or converter! Think about it, prehistoric civilizations may have already mastered some more direct form of energy utilization that we haven't yet understood!"

His excitement was palpable; he looked at the metal plate as if it were a priceless treasure.

Wang Huanbo inwardly praised Howard, who was indeed a genius, able to guess the direction close to the truth with just a few glances. He nodded and said in a more composed tone, "Mr. Stark's conjecture is very enlightening. I noticed that the depth and edge angles of these etchings exhibit a specific consistency on a microscopic level that cannot be achieved by hand carving, more like the result of some kind of... directional energy etching. Moreover, this dark silver color reminds me of amorphous alloys that may exist in some rare meteorites, which change their properties under specific energy fields."

"Directed energy etching? Amorphous alloys?" Howard turned sharply, staring intently at Wang Huanbo, his probing gaze turning into shock and extreme excitement. "Mr. Wang, you're not joking? You have research evidence in this area?"

"It's just some theoretical deductions and limited experimental observations," Wang Huanbo said, downplaying the main point. "When I was at the Technical University of Berlin, I worked on some projects with a professor who studied ancient metallurgy and energy relics, and I came across some similar, but much smaller, fragments. Combined with the vague records of 'thunder patterns' and 'star arrays' in some ancient Eastern books, I personally tend to believe that some lost civilizations may have had practices in energy materialization and field energy guidance that surpass our imagination. This disc may be one of the keys."

His statement was a mix of truth and falsehood. He mentioned "Technical University of Berlin" and "professor" to increase credibility, and introduced mysterious "ancient Eastern books" to fit his identity as an "overseas Chinese scholar." He also cleverly steered the conversation toward Howard's most passionate area—energy technology that is ahead of its time.

Howard's breathing quickened. He grabbed Wang Huanbo's arm (quite forcefully): "Wang! I need to see your research materials! No, my lab! You absolutely must come to my lab tomorrow! Bring this plate! We can try X-ray diffraction, spectral analysis, and even my newly acquired particle flow generator! God, this could be the greatest archaeological discovery and technological revelation of the century!"

"Mr. Stark, it would be impolite to refuse your kind invitation," Wang Huanbo said with a smile. "I have long admired Stark Industries' cutting-edge research, especially your concept of the 'Compact High-Energy Output Device,' which I believe is the true key to the future. This disc may offer some ancient inspiration."

"That's right! Exactly!" Howard slapped Wang Huanbo hard on the shoulder (the latter didn't budge), "Inspiration! What we lack is inspiration that breaks out of the box! Tomorrow, 10 a.m., Stark Tower rooftop lab, I'll be waiting for you! Oh, and by the way, call me Howard!"

"Well then, Howard, see you tomorrow." Wang Huanbo readily agreed.

The two exchanged contact information (Wang Huanbo left his room number at the Plaza Hotel). Howard then warmly led Wang Huanbo back to the banquet hall, introducing him to several familiar scientists and industrialists, making no secret of his appreciation for this "new friend" and his admiration for his "profound knowledge." Wang Huanbo responded appropriately, and his solid foundation in mechanics, materials, and fundamental physics, along with his occasional flashes of insightful observations, gradually made the initially reserved scholars abandon their disdain and begin to engage in serious conversation.

When Wang Huanbo excused himself, saying he had other plans for the next day, Howard was still reluctant to leave and repeatedly urged him to come back the next day.

In the car back at the Plaza Hotel, Attorney Chen couldn't hide his excitement: "Mr. Wang, you and Mr. Stark had a very pleasant conversation! It seems things went very smoothly!"

"This is just the beginning." Wang Huanbo gazed at the neon lights flashing past the window, his tone calm. "Howard is a genius, and also the best litmus test. Going to his lab tomorrow will be the real 'interview.' That metal disk is our topic of conversation, and also our pledge of allegiance."

"Is that thing... really that amazing?" Attorney Chen asked curiously.

Wang Huanbo smiled faintly, offering no answer. That object was certainly no simple matter. It was an "antique" he had Pangu design in the main world, based on a certain energy circuit of the Predator armor and the energy condensation method of some of Ultraman Ace's beam skills. It was then etched onto a special alloy using future electrical discharge machining technology. The patterns contained an extremely simplified energy flow model guiding the activation of a cold fusion confinement field, and the shape and size of the central groove precisely hinted at the prototype of a ring-shaped reaction chamber. For Howard, this was nothing short of an apocalypse.

What he wanted was this "divine revelation," along with the trust, cooperation, and ultimately, technology sharing that followed.

At 10:00 a.m. the next day, Wang Huanbo arrived precisely at the Stark Tower in Midtown Manhattan. It was an Art Deco-style high-rise with the prominent Stark Industries logo at the entrance. After giving his name, he was led directly to the top floor.

Howard's private laboratory was like a futuristic technology playground. The vast space was filled with all sorts of instruments and equipment whose names he didn't know, some still sparking or humming. Blueprints and formulas hung on the walls, and parts, tools, and half-empty coffee cups were scattered on the workbenches. The air was thick with the smells of machine oil, ozone, solder, and… a faint scent of cologne.

Howard was already waiting there, having changed into oil-stained work pants and a leather jacket, but his hair was still neatly combed. He greeted him warmly: "My King! You're here! Come, let me see that treasure!"

Wang Huanbo handed him the box containing the metal disc. Howard practically snatched it, carefully took it out, placed it on a padded workbench, and then eagerly turned on a huge X-ray crystal analyzer that looked like a homemade, modified version.

For the next few hours, Howard was completely immersed in his research. He operated various instruments to scan, illuminate, and measure the metal disk, muttering to himself, sometimes shouting excitedly, sometimes frowning in deep thought. Wang Huanbo stood quietly to the side, only offering guiding insights when Howard asked questions, using pretexts such as "the Berlin Technical University project" or "associations with Eastern literature." Each insight hit the nail on the head, giving Howard a sudden enlightenment.

"Look! X-ray diffraction pattern! Completely amorphous, but showing signs of long-range order inside! God, what kind of structure is this?"

"Spectroscopic analysis shows the presence of palladium, iridium, and several unknown elements! This formula..."

"The difference in conductivity between the patterns... there's definitely something special about it! Wang, the 'energy flow node' you mentioned might be here!"

"The curvature of this groove... wait, if I assume plasma is injected here, under a specific magnetic field..."

Howard grew increasingly excited as he studied the material. His gaze towards Wang Huanbo was no longer just admiration, but a burning desire to find a kindred spirit. Wang Huanbo not only provided the materials, but also understood his line of thinking, and could even propose bolder, yet logically consistent, conjectures!

Lunch consisted of sandwiches delivered to the lab, which the two ate while discussing. The topics had long since expanded beyond the metal plate, reaching materials science, nuclear physics, aerodynamics, cybernetics, and more. Wang Huanbo's extensive knowledge, clear logic, and occasional flashes of insight that seemed to come from the future left Howard thoroughly impressed, exclaiming, "I wish we had met sooner!"

"Wang, seriously," Howard took a swig of coffee, his eyes fixed intently on Wang Huanbo, "it's such a waste for your talent to be spent doing trade in Southeast Asia! You should stay in New York, at Stark Industries! I have everything you want here! Equipment, funding, challenges! We can change the world together! Think about it, based on the energy model of this disc, combined with my concept for the arc reactor, we might actually be able to build something!"

The fish has taken the bait. Wang Huanbo understood, but his face showed appropriate regret and contemplation.

"Howard, your proposal is very appealing. It has always been my wish to contribute to cutting-edge research. However..." He carefully chose his words, "I also have some business considerations to consider for my family on this trip. The business in Southeast Asia needs to be taken care of, and most of my funds are managed by a family trust. Using them for long-term risky research and development investments requires more comprehensive planning."

"Money?" Howard waved his hand, with the arrogance and frankness typical of a genius. "Money is no problem! Well, there are a few minor issues for now. The military's orders are slow to pay, and some of my own 'hobbies' are also quite expensive… But if you're interested in investing in Stark Industries and becoming a partner, then everything is negotiable! We can offer you the most favorable terms! Technology sharing! Laboratory access! Think about it, Wang, together we can make this—" He pointed to a rough sketch of a circular structure on the wall—the original concept of the Arc Reactor—" a reality! Clean, efficient, and virtually limitless energy! This will be the third industrial revolution after the steam engine and electricity!"

Pointing to the sketch, he passionately described his vision: to power cities, to power cars and airplanes, and even… to provide the core for some kind of “personal powered armor.” Wang Huanbo listened quietly, his gaze fixed on the simple yet profoundly meaningful sketch, his heart beating slightly faster.

This was one of the core objectives of his trip: the original blueprints for the Arc Reactor, Howard Stark's unreserved vision.

"Howard, your dream is admirable," Wang Huanbo said slowly and sincerely. "If I can participate in it in some way and contribute to this cause that could change the landscape of human energy, it would be my honor. We can have professionals discuss the specific form, amount, and rights of the investment in detail. But I must ensure that my participation truly touches the core of this great research, and not just provides financial support."

"Of course! Without a doubt!" Howard replied without hesitation. "You're a genius, Wang! A partner! Not one of those profit-driven bankers! I'll give you the highest level of technical access! My lab will be completely open to you! We can work together, solve problems together! Tomorrow, no, this afternoon! I'll have my lawyer and CFO come over, and we'll finalize the details!"

His eagerness stemmed from two main reasons. First, he was completely impressed by Wang Huanbo's "knowledge" and "mysterious artifacts," regarding him as a rare kindred spirit and ally. Second, while Stark Industries appeared glamorous, Howard's imaginative research was indeed extremely taxing. The "mysterious capital from Southeast Asia" represented by Wang Huanbo was exactly the kind of "fresh water" he needed right now, one that wasn't so easily constrained by the military or Wall Street.

That afternoon, Stark Industries' chief lawyer and financial director were summoned immediately by a phone call from Howard. A concise and efficient negotiation unfolded in the suite at the Plaza Hotel where Wang Huanbo was staying.

Wang Huanbo's side was handled by Attorney Chen, who was handling the legal details. His proposed terms were clear and firm: an investment of $500,000 in exchange for 5% non-dilutable preferred stock in Stark Industries (no voting rights, but priority in dividends and liquidation), along with the title of "Special Technical Advisor," granting him unrestricted access to all non-classified core technical materials of Stark Industries, independent use of a basic-equipped laboratory, and priority access to the technological achievements of joint research and development projects with Stark Industries. Furthermore, the agreement included confidentiality clauses and a right of first refusal for future capital increases.

This condition was equivalent to exchanging a huge sum of money (the purchasing power of $500,000 in 1941 was astonishing) for shares in Stark Industries' unlimited future potential, and most importantly—a ticket to Howard Stark's brain and Arc Reactor technology.

Howard's lawyers had some objections to the equity ratio and technical rights, arguing that it was too generous. But Howard himself made the final decision: "It's settled! Wang is the person we've been looking for; his value is far more than half a million!" In his view, the revelation of the "ancient energy device" brought by Wang Huanbo and his profound expertise in multiple fields were invaluable. He desperately needed such an intellectual partner and trusted his own judgment.

Negotiations continued late into the night, and a final agreement was reached. When Wang Huanbo signed, he used the seal of the "Wang Family Trust." A check for $500,000 would be transferred from a Swiss bank account to Stark Industries' account within three days.

When the two shook hands, Howard patted Wang Huanbo on the back and shouted "Cheers to the future!" Wang Huanbo knew that he had finally planted the most solid foundation in New York in 1941.

Investing in Stark Industries and becoming Howard Stark's technology partner and investor—this went far more smoothly and deeply than he had anticipated. The technological path of the Arc Reactor was now clearly unfolding before him. And the countdown to the Super Soldier Serum was silently approaching that Brooklyn night.

Outside on the balcony, the lights of New York City burned all night, as if silently warming up for the coming, even more magnificent era.